World Immigration News

New rules for labor immigration – stricter requirements and new sanctions proposed from 1 June 2026

Release Date: 2025-10-24
Media: KPMG
Summary: The Swedish government plans to tighten its labor immigration system starting June 1, 2026, with the goal of preventing worker exploitation, combating labor market crime, enhancing protections for foreign workers, and attracting highly skilled professionals.

Under the new framework, the minimum salary required for work permit applications will increase from 80% to 90% of Sweden’s median wage, which currently means a rise from SEK 29,680 to around SEK 33,390. The threshold will be updated annually, and the government may grant exemptions for certain occupations, particularly those facing labor shortages or covered by collective agreements with lower pay levels. Some professions, such as berry pickers and personal assistants, could be excluded from eligibility for work permits altogether.

Applicants staying up to one year must also hold or apply for comprehensive health insurance valid in Sweden, aligning work permit requirements with those already applied to EU Blue Card, ICT, and research permits.

Employers will face stricter compliance rules. Work permits may be denied if an employer is suspected or convicted of crimes involving labor exploitation, trafficking, or tax offenses. Fines for employing unauthorized workers will double, with heavier penalties for violations exceeding three months. These penalties will also extend to subcontractors.

For ICT and seasonal work permits, minimum wages will follow collective agreements, and the standard maintenance requirement will be abolished. The maximum duration of EU Blue Cards will increase from two to four years, making them a more attractive option for highly qualified migrants. Sectors such as cleaning, construction, transport, staffing, and personal assistance, which have shown higher rates of misuse, may be excluded from work permit eligibility, with the government able to update the exclusion list as needed.

The new rules will take effect on June 1, 2026. Work permit renewals submitted before December 1, 2026, for permits granted under the old system, will remain subject to previous regulations, and the new salary threshold will not apply retroactively.

KPMG considers the reforms consistent with the government’s objective to tighten labor immigration while providing greater clarity and predictability. However, it also notes that the new framework will increase administrative and procedural burdens for employers, particularly small and medium-sized companies. Businesses will need to reassess salary levels, insurance coverage, and compliance obligations. While the changes may challenge some employers, the extended duration of EU Blue Cards is expected to make Sweden a more appealing destination for skilled workers.
Tags: Sweden

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